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Upcoming events

    • 18 Feb 2025
    • 1 Apr 2025
    • 6 sessions
    • Studio Space (1st floor)
    • 3
    Register

    Tuesdays, 7 - 9 pm. Feb 18, 25, Mar 4, 18, 25, Apr 1 (6 weeks).


    Adv $175/Reg $185 

    Learn how to decipher a commercial sewing pattern. Sizing, cutting, pinning, and marking will be covered in this course. Participants will put their new skills to work to make an apron/work smock.

    Supply List: Pattern & Fabric

    • McCall’s Pattern #M8308 at Fabricland
    • Cotton fabric (Small: 1.6 m; Medium: 2.0 m; Large: 2.0 m; XL 2.1 m) 
    • matching thread  
    • .5 m contrasting cotton fabric for pockets
    •  0.8 m interfacing
    • Pre-wash fabric in cold water in case it isn't colour-fast. Iron fabric
    • 18 Feb 2025
    • 1 Apr 2025
    • 6 sessions
    • Studio Space (First Floor)
    • 0
    Join waitlist

    Tuesdays, 7 - 9 pm. Feb 18, 25, Mar 4, 18, 25, Apr 1 (6 weeks).


    Adv $175/Reg $185 + $30 materials fee

    As the days grow longer, and we move toward spring, let’s get together and create beautiful wool scenes of flowers and trees.  We’ll use the needle felting technique to create a floral depiction in wool and wet felting to make a woodland landscape.  All the required tools and materials will be supplied to you and demonstration and direct instruction will allow you to interpret reference photos supplied by the instructors.  You’ll also learn how to make use of textiles, stitch work and beading to enhance your creations.   No prior experience in any medium is required, though experienced artists and artisans will be able to bring their specific skill set and experience to the projects as well.  

    • 19 Feb 2025
    • 2 Apr 2025
    • 6 sessions
    • Studio Space (1st floor)
    • 0
    Join waitlist

    Wednesdays, 1 - 3 pm. Feb 19, 26, Mar 5, 19, 26, Apr 2 (6 weeks).


    EB $175/Reg $185 + $15 materials fee 

    Please note: Students supply the basic materials for their course (see Supplies List below description), and the course provides Artist Quality Sanded Pastel Paper, Liquid All Natural Odor Free Fixative and Compressed Charcoal )

    The abstract language follows a tradition of invention and Interpretation.

    The course objective is to develop the concept of abstraction from source materials.

    Soft pastel’s tactile nature and basic supply / material requirements are an ideal entry into the journey of exploring abstraction.

    Initial colour studies from thumbnail sketches will progress in stages to the completion of larger works. This process, based on utilizing the Principles and Elements of Art is transferable to other mediums. 

    You will receive a 4 pg outline detailing How to Abstract, The Principles and Elements of Art, Composition Strategies, Ideas on Colour Studies in addition to Creating Larger Work and Self Critiquing.

    Supply List Required 

    • A set of a minimum 20 colour Artist quality Soft Pastels
    • A pad of inexpensive newsprint or student drawing paper 11 x 14”  minimum size
    • A 1.5” - 2”  Bristle Brush 
    • A Roll of ¾ in Masking Tape ( no blue, green or colored tape )

    *Please note that the Pastels in this course are NOT Oil Pastels.

    • 19 Feb 2025
    • 2 Apr 2025
    • 6 sessions
    • Studio Space (1st floor)
    • 5
    Register

    Wednesdays, 7 - 9 pm. Feb 19, 26, Mar 5, 19, 26, Apr 2. (6 weeks)


    EB $175/Reg $185

    Please note: Students supply the materials for their course- see Supplies List below description:

    Elevate your oil painting skills to new heights in our Intermediate Level Course, where we'll delve into mastering the technique of creating texture through analyzing a source image and the layering process.

    In this immersive journey into the world of oil painting, you will explore the intricacies of analyzing source images, establishing a harmonious palette, and mastering the art of layering. Guided by an experienced instructor, you'll learn how to transform your visions into stunning works of art, infused with depth, dimension, and vibrant color.

    Throughout the course, you'll explore the transformative power of layering, discovering how to apply multiple layers of oil paint to create dynamic compositions that captivate the imagination. From subtle shifts in tone and texture to bold contrasts of light and shadow, you'll learn how to breathe life into your artwork with each carefully crafted layer.

    But mastering oil painting isn't just about technique – it's about understanding the nuances of color mixing and composition, and how to use them to convey emotion and narrative in your work. Through a series of hands-on exercises and demonstrations, you'll gain the confidence to experiment with color and form, pushing the boundaries of your creativity with each stroke of the brush.

    Whether you're a seasoned artist looking to refine your skills or a passionate learner eager to take your art to the next level, this course offers something for everyone. Join me and unlock the secrets of oil painting mastery, as you discover the joy of bringing your artistic visions to life on canvas. 

    Supply List

    Oil Paints: 37ml tubes of Winton Oil Colour: 

    • Titanium White 

    • Ivory Black 

    • Burnt Sienna 

    • Yellow Ochre 

    • Viridian Hue 

    • Permanent green light 

    • Phthalo Blue 

    • French Ultramarine 

    • Cadmium Red Deep Hue 

    • Cadmium Yellow Pale Hue 

    Paint brushes: page3image59245504

    • Flat brushes, #1, 4, 8, and 12.

    Palette Cup 

    Medium: 

    • Linseed oil 

    • Turpentine 

    Canvas or Painting Surface: 

    • Stretched Canvas, 11” x 14” 

    • Canva-Paper; an economical alternative to canvas 

    Rags or Paper Towels: These are essential for wiping brushes, cleaning up spills, and creating texture in the paint. 

    Palette Sealable Container: Useful for storing and preserving leftover paint for future use.

    Brush Cleaner: A gentle brush cleaner is needed for cleaning brushes after painting.

    Sketching Materials: Pencils, charcoal, or other sketching materials are useful for planning and sketching out the composition before applying paint.

    • 19 Feb 2025
    • 2 Apr 2025
    • 6 sessions
    • Studio Space (1st floor)
    • 0
    Join waitlist

    Wednesdays, 7 - 9 pm, Feb 19, 26, Mar 5, 19, 26, Apr 2 (6 weeks)


    Adv $175/Reg $185

    In this class, you’ll learn foundational watercolour painting skills and the knowledge of values, colour theory and composition. We will work with reference photos to recreate vibrant sunsets, reflections and scenes that capture light effectively.

    Watercolour paper (140lb or higher) can be sketchbook or loose paper

    Board to fix the paper on

    Masking tape for fixing paper on board

    Pencil, Eraser for sketching

    Watercolour paint brushes – 1 round brush (medium), 1 round (fine tip), 1 flat brush

    Roll of paper towels or cotton rags

    Container of water and spray bottle if you have one

    Palette

    Watercolour paints, colours should include:

    • a warm red (Cadmium/Pyrrole Red)
    • a cool red (Alizarin Crimson, opera pink)
    • a cool yellow (Cadmium Yellow Light/Lemon Yellow)
    • a warm yellow (Nickel Azo Yellow/Cadmium Yellow Deep)
    • a warm blue (Ultramarine Blue)
    • a cool blue (Pthalo Blue)
    • Payne’s Grey/ Neutral tint
    • 20 Feb 2025
    • 3 Apr 2025
    • 6 sessions
    • Studio Space (1st floor)
    • 1
    Register

    Thursdays, 1 - 3 pm. Feb 20, 27, Mar 6, 20, 27, Apr 3 (6 weeks).


    Adv $175/Reg $185 

    Learn how to decipher a commercial sewing pattern. Sizing, cutting, pinning, and marking will be covered in this course. Participants will put their new skills to work to make an apron/work smock.

    Supply List: Pattern & Fabric

    • McCall’s Pattern #M8308 at Fabricland
    • Cotton fabric (Small: 1.6 m; Medium: 2.0 m; Large: 2.0 m; XL 2.1 m) 
    • matching thread  
    • .5 m contrasting cotton fabric for pockets
    •  0.8 m interfacing
    • Pre-wash fabric in cold water in case it isn't colour-fast. Iron fabric
    • 20 Feb 2025
    • 10 Apr 2025
    • 7 sessions
    • Studio Space (1st floor)
    • 3
    Register

    Thursdays, 1 - 3 pm. Feb 20, 27, Mar 6, 20, 27,  Apr 3, 10. (7 weeks).


    EB $235/Reg $255 + $25 materials

    In this 7-week course, learn to make various functional and decorative pottery forms using slab, pinch pot, and sculpting techniques. You will also learn about surface decoration- carving, adding elements, and glazing.

    • 20 Feb 2025
    • 3 Apr 2025
    • 6 sessions
    • Studio Space (1st floor)
    • 3
    Register

    Thursdays, 7 - 9 pm. Feb 20, 27, Mar 6, 20, 27, Apr 3 (6 weeks).


    EB $175/Reg $185 + $15 materials fee 

    Please note: Students supply the basic materials for their course (see Supplies List below description), and the course provides Artist Quality Sanded Pastel Paper, Liquid All Natural Odor Free Fixative and Compressed Charcoal )

    The abstract language follows a tradition of invention and Interpretation. The course objective is to develop the concept of abstraction from source materials. Soft pastel’s tactile nature and basic supply / material requirements are an ideal entry into the journey of exploring abstraction. Initial colour studies from thumbnail sketches will progress in stages to the completion of larger works. This process, based on utilizing the Principles and Elements of Art is transferable to other mediums. 

    You will receive a 4 pg outline detailing How to Abstract, The Principles and Elements of Art, Composition Strategies, Ideas on Colour Studies in addition to Creating Larger Work and Self Critiquing.


    Supply List Required :

    • A set of a minimum 20 colour Artist quality Soft Pastels
    • A pad of inexpensive newsprint or student drawing paper 11 x 14”  minimum size
    • A 1.5” - 2”  Bristle Brush 
    • A Roll of ¾ in Masking Tape ( no blue, green or colored tape )

    Please note that the Pastels in this course are NOT Oil Pastels.

    • 21 Feb 2025
    • 4 Apr 2025
    • 6 sessions
    • Studio Space (1st floor)
    • 2
    Register

    Fridays, 7 - 9  pm. Feb 21, 28, Mar 7, 21, 28, Apr 4 (6 weeks)


    Adv $175/Reg $185

    If you’ve ever wanted to try your hand at an age-old practice of drawing portraiture, this course is the perfect choice for you. Over six weeks, we will be learning how to simplify and understand the human face, as well as practicing tips and tricks make your portraits stand out. While this class will have an emphasis on self-portraiture and working from life, we will also have chances to work from photograph. Whether you want to learn realism, or develop your own style, this class will nurture your creativity and have you creating portraits you love.

    SUPPLY LIST:

    • Paper: Pad of Strathmore Drawing (300 or 400 series), Medium texture. 9” x 12”
    • Set of drawing pencils (At least four pencils: HB, 3B, 2H, B – the set should read similar to these, but they don’t need to be exactly that)

    • Eraser

    • 22 Feb 2025
    • 29 Mar 2025
    • 6 sessions
    • Studio Space (1st floor)
    • 0
    Join waitlist

    Saturdays, 10 - 12 pm. Feb 22, Mar 1, 8, 15, 22, 29


    EB $175 / Reg $185 + $30 materials

    Want to explore a range of Printmaking techniques? Try your hand at Collagraphy, Block and Cyano printing, Monoprinting and Botanical prints. 

    Feb 22 - BOTANICAL PRINT with Anne Williamson

    Mar 1 -  POCHOIR with Elizabeth Forrest

    Mar 8 -  BLOCK PRINT with Susha Suresh

    Mar 15 - COLLAGRAPHY with Nancy Peng

    Mar 22 - COLLAGRAPHY with Nancy Peng

    Mar 29 - CYANO PRINT with Kate Short

    • 24 Feb 2025
    • 7 Apr 2025
    • 6 sessions
    • Program Space (Main Floor)
    • 8
    Register

    Mondays, 7 - 9 pm. Feb 24, Mar 3, 17, 24, 31, Apr 7 (6 weeks).


    EB $175/Reg $185 plus $60 model fee.

    Alongside learning painting techniques, this course will also go more into how to better capture skin tones and colours through paint. Using a model, increase your skill at representing the human form and find your own unique style! 

    Supplies list:

    • 2 canvas boards (just canvas wrapped board) ~ 11 x 14 or bigger

    • 1 stretched canvas 

    • Paint of choice (acrylic and/or oil) -- at least with black, white, blue, red, and yellow (preferably ultramarine blue, alizarin crimson, and cadmium yellow but any will be fine)

    • If oil, please also bring oil medium of choice (e.g., linseed oil) and gamsol

    • Set of brushes -- at least 1 small (~half an inch) and 2 larger (1 inch+)

    • reusable or tear-away palette

    • 24 Feb 2025
    • 7 Apr 2025
    • 6 sessions
    • Studio Space (First Floor)
    • 13
    Register

    Mondays, 7 - 9 pm. Feb 24, Mar 3, 17, 24, 31 (6 weeks).

    EB $175/Reg $185

    Our lives are full of many experiences, many stories.  Have you ever dreamt of sharing these with others in a memoir?

    Join us for our 6 week Memory to Memoir Writing course where we’ll explore how you can turn your personal story into a well crafted memoir.  In a safe and supportive environment we’ll look at a variety of topics, ranging from memoir vs autobiography, to navigating sensitive subjects, to the importance of theme, to creating images in writing, and everything in between. 

    Each week participants will be encouraged to try their hand at small exercises to help them develop their own “writing muscles” and unique style.  

    Please bring pen, paper, laptop, whatever your preference for writing.  

Past events

19 Nov 2024 COURSE- Introduction to Felting with Michael Rouse and Peter van Ryn
7 Nov 2024 COURSE- Crochet For All with Maria Mesquita
7 Nov 2024 COURSE- Introduction to Acrylic Painting with Terry Torra
4 Nov 2024 COURSE - Oil Painting Level 2: Layering and Texturing with Soroush Dabiri
1 Nov 2024 COURSE- Drawing Sampler with Various Instructors
30 Oct 2024 COURSE- Drawing with Soft Pastels with Edward Hanson
30 Oct 2024 COURSE- Introduction to Watercolour with Robert Achtemichuk
30 Oct 2024 COURSE- Watercolour Explorations with Nancy Peng
29 Oct 2024 COURSE- Oil Painting with Connie Melnik
26 Oct 2024 COURSE- Art Sampler with Various Instructors
24 Oct 2024 COURSE- Introduction to Digital Photography with Karl Griffiths-Fulton
20 Oct 2024 COURSE- Mokuhanga: Japanese Woodblock Print with Elizabeth Forrest
13 Sep 2024 COURSE- Art Fundamentals with Baz Kanold
12 Sep 2024 COURSE-Drawing with Coloured Pencils with Terry Torra
12 Sep 2024 COURSE- Knitting for Beginners with Linda Brine
11 Sep 2024 COURSE- Drawing with Soft Pastels with Edward Hanson
10 Sep 2024 COURSE- Acrylic Painting with Wilma Vanderleeuw
10 Sep 2024 COURSE- Introduction to Watercolour with Robert Achtemichuk
9 Sep 2024 COURSE - Oil Painting Level 3: Expressive Oil Painting with Soroush Dabiri
9 Sep 2024 COURSE- Creative Stitching with Baz Kanold
9 Sep 2024 COURSE- Oil Painting Level 1: Introduction to Oil Painting Techniques with Soroush Dabiri
12 Jul 2024 COURSE- Drawing for Beginners with Baz Kanold
5 Jun 2024 COURSE- Floral Watercolours with Moumita Roychowdhury
25 May 2024 COURSE- Watercolour Painting En Plein Air with Soroush Dabiri
24 May 2024 COURSE- Explorations in Stitching with Baz Kanold
23 May 2024 COURSE - Oil Painting Level 2: Layering, and Texturing with Soroush Dabiri
23 May 2024 COURSE- Hand Bound Books 2 with Linda Brine
23 May 2024 COURSE- Painting from the Figure with Baz Kanold
21 May 2024 COURSE- Drawing with Coloured Pencils with Terry Torra
9 Apr 2024 COURSE- Intro to Oil Painting with Connie Melnik

LOCATION: 

25 Regina Street South

Waterloo ON N2L1R8


SUMMER HOURS:

Tuesday to Friday 10 to 7

Saturday 10 to 5

Closed Sunday

CONTACT US:

519-886-4577

Membership and rentals:

operations@buttonfactoryarts.ca


Program inquiries:

programs@buttonfactoryarts.ca


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